Recommended Timing of Study Abroad
The Office of International Education recommends that students interested in a semester or academic year abroad plan for junior year. First year students should focus on taking foundation courses, consider degree opportunities with Academic Services, and begin to research study abroad options through various on campus events. First year students are not permitted to study abroad for a semester or academic year. As sophomores, students should declare their major(s), continue to research study abroad programs, and begin their application to study abroad for the following academic year. It is not advised for students to study abroad in either their sophomore year, or final semester senior year. Study abroad is challenging, but occasionally possible, for first semester seniors. We encourage students to see an advisor in the Office of International Education to discuss study abroad opportunities and plan academically early in their academic career.
Consider Your Semester Preference
Keep an open mind for fall OR spring study abroad. Semester preference is NOT guaranteed. Applicants must explain the reasons for their semester preference on the application. While we aim to accommodate the semester preference for as many students as possible, no semester is guaranteed. Students applying to programs in very popular countries should be aware that semester preference may be difficult to accommodate for all qualified students.
Major Declaration Requirement
Students must declare a major prior to submitting an application for semester study abroad.
GPA Requirement
A GPA of 3.0 or higher is strongly recommended for all programs. Many of our partner institutions require a minimum 3.0 GPA for acceptance. Applicants with a GPA below 3.0 should meet with a study abroad advisor to discuss program options prior to submitting an application. A GPA of 2.5 is the minimum for consideration.
Passport Requirement
In order to obtain necessary travel documents, students are required to submit valid passport information prior to submitting an application for study abroad.
Recommended Courses
Effective Fall 2023, there is no longer a course prerequisite to apply to study abroad, however, coursework in the GLS department in the target language is strongly encouraged and can fulfill Context and Perspective requirements.
There are also no course prerequisites for summer or faculty-led programs.